Holiday Magic arriving

A “reverse” parade, Christmas karaoke, photos with Santa Claus, and performances by the Shel-Town Strummers are among the highlights of the Holiday Magic event staged from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 3 and 4 in downtown Shelton.

The Kristmas Town Kiwanis Club hosts the event on a stretch of West Railroad Avenue, which will be closed to vehicle traffic. That will allow a “reverse” parade, where the floats and performers are stationary and patrons walk amongst them.

“We’re excited to put on an old favorite with a twist,” said Julie Wren, the event organizer for Kristmas Town Kiwanis.

In pre-COVID times, hundreds of people came downtown for the Christmas parade.

“We had planned not to anything with it,” Wren said. “Then Deidre (Peterson) recommended it and we ran with it.” She added, “We were very nervous with COVID restrictions.”

As for the pandemic, Wren asks patrons to “use your best judgment. Fortunately, it’s all outdoors. We’re encouraging social distancing.”

For example, patrons can pose for photos with Santa Claus. But instead of sitting on his lap, the kids will sit on blocks in front of Santa for the photo, and hand him a letter containing their Christmas wishes, Wren said.

Fire pits will be lit, and kids can enjoy a ride on the Kristmas Kiwanis’ tiny train. Children can also create holiday crafts. Shelton Cinemas will host a screening of the movie “Elf” at 4 p.m. Dec. 3, free of charge with the donation of non-perishable food.

Shelton Downtown Merchants are offering a “Shop Shelton First” rewards card. Participants will receive a stamp on their cars for every $25 spent downtown. After 10 stamps, the card is full and patrons can enter a drawing for a large basket of downtown wares and other prizes.